2025 Paddling Events Along the Ohio River Way
We may be biased, but we think one of the best ways to experience the beauty and fun of the Ohio River Way is by paddling its waters. Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or just looking for a fun way to explore the river, 2025 is packed with exciting paddling events along the Ohio River Way.
From calm scenic floats and thrilling long-distance excursions to massive festivals and community floats, here are some of the top events to put on your calendar this year:
The Ohio River Way Challenge - May 5-15
If a 10-day paddle in 30-foot voyager canoes isn’t on your bucket list—it should be now. The Ohio River Way Challenge departs from Ashland & Ironton and ends in Louisville, Kentucky, spanning 286 miles of the scenic Ohio River Way. The challenge will stop in river towns and connect with leaders and community members to celebrate river-based recreation. This event is open to the public but you must submit an application by April 1, 2025. (It is on a first-come, first-served basis.) Learn more here.
Mayor’s Hike, Bike, and Paddle, Louisville — May 26, 2025
Held annually on Memorial Day, this Louisville tradition encourages residents and visitors to engage in three outdoor activities: hiking, cycling, and of course, paddling along the Ohio River. The event is free and welcomes participants of all ages. Spectators can enjoy plenty of fun, music, and free fitness activities. Details can be found on the Louisville government website.
Hike, Bike, and Paddle, Carrollton County — June 14, 2025
Carrollton/Carroll County Tourism presents Hike, Bike, Paddle Carroll County at Point Park in Carrollton, Kentucky. Take a scenic hike at General Butler State Resort Park, a bike ride along the Ohio River, and complete a guided paddle on the river. The event also features the "Big Dill" Pickleball Tournament on Friday evening, along with live music and food trucks at Point Park. Find out more here.
M2M Paddlefest, Maysville — July 27, 2025
The M2M Paddlefest guides participants in kayaks and canoes from Manchester, Ohio, to Maysville, Kentucky, along the Ohio River. The journey concludes with festivities at O’Rourke’s Pub near Limestone Landing. For more information, visit the event's Facebook page.
Pack a Dam Lock (PADL), Perry County — July 26, 2025
Experience a one-of-a-kind paddling adventure with PADL as you journey through the Cannelton Lock & Dam in Perry County. This guided 6-nautical-mile paddle starts at Rocky Point, where over 100 paddle crafts will pack into the lock before floating downriver to the Cannelton boat ramp. Enjoy stunning views and witness the impressive engineering of the dam system along the way. Stay updated on the Paddle Perry Facebook page.
Ohio River Paddlefest, Cincinnati — August 2, 2025
Touted as the nation's largest paddling celebration, Paddlefest invites participants to embark on a scenic 9-mile journey through downtown Cincinnati. The event features live music, local vendors, and various family-friendly activities. Registration details and schedules are available on the official Paddlefest website.
Be on the lookout for…
These dates are still in the works, but be on the lookout for these other annual Ohio River paddling events:
Adams County Paddlefest on Ohio Brush Creek — Date To Be Announced
Organized by the Adams County Health & Wellness Coalition, this Paddlefest provides a serene 4-mile paddle down Ohio Brush Creek, culminating in music, vendors, and food at MoonDoggie LIVERee. The 2025 date is yet to be announced; stay updated on the Adams County Health & Wellness Coalition Facebook page.
P-Town Float, Scioto County — Date To Be Announced
Join the P-Town Float, an annual paddling event in Scioto County, for a relaxing 7-mile journey down the Ohio River to the State Park Marina. Open to all skill levels, this laid-back float is perfect for kayakers and paddleboarders looking to enjoy the scenic waterway. The 2025 date is still pending, so stay tuned to the Portsmouth Area Chamber of Commerce events page for updates!
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You can find the Ohio River Way’s press kit here.